When scientific data sets can be interpreted visually they are typically managed as pictures and consequently stored as large collections of bitmaps. Valuable information contained in images is often not exploited, however, simply because the data is not processed further. Common reasons for this are that access to information in image collectio...

When scientific data sets can be interpreted visually they are typically managed as pictures and consequently stored as large collections of bitmaps. Valuable information contained in images is often not exploited, however, simply because the data is not processed further. Common reasons for this are that access to information in image collections is notoriously difficult and that interesting applications often depend on supplementary data with incompatible formats. If such data sets are treated as higher-dimensional point data instead of byte streams and managed with a suitable multidimensional file structure, then it is possible to transform "fuzzy" objects into n-dimensional solids. Several benefits result: content based access becomes possible, the potential for data compression without loss of relevant information exists and additional information can readily be incorporated simply by increasing the file structure's dimensionality. This paper describes how this approach has been. Minimize

Abstract. Environmental databases store a wide variety of data from heterogeneous sources which are described with domain-specific terminologies and refer to distinct locations. In order to make them accessible also to non-expert users, terminological concepts and spatial relations must be represented in a way that they can be exploited for sear...

Abstract. Environmental databases store a wide variety of data from heterogeneous sources which are described with domain-specific terminologies and refer to distinct locations. In order to make them accessible also to non-expert users, terminological concepts and spatial relations must be represented in a way that they can be exploited for searches. In this paper we propose a hybrid knowledge representation system architecture which integrates terminological and spatial aspects of the application domain and provides support for reasoning with RCC, a well-known calculus for spatial reasoning, and the Semantic Web’s ontology language OWL. Our approach is motivated by the observation that RCC cannot be expressed in OWL without a major revision of the latter. Issues of upholding consistency of the knowledge base in view of an evolving ontology and of computational complexity are discussed. 1 Minimize

Abstract. A new approach to spatioterminological reasoning is presented which is based on a hybrid knowledge representation system architecture and on a representation of the RCC family tree in OWL. The knowledge base into which the family tree is imported holds role assertions in terms of RCC-8 relations between individual regions. It is a key ...

Abstract. A new approach to spatioterminological reasoning is presented which is based on a hybrid knowledge representation system architecture and on a representation of the RCC family tree in OWL. The knowledge base into which the family tree is imported holds role assertions in terms of RCC-8 relations between individual regions. It is a key component of a semantic layer constructed on top of an environmental database which aims at facilitating access to users by supporting a sophisticated while easy-to-use search engine. Issues of world assumption and spatial extension to OWL are discussed. 1 Minimize

Abstract. In environmental databases there is a plethora of data, described in different terminologies, stored in different data structures and referring to distinct time periods and locations. Thus it is difficult for non-experts to find the data they are looking for. Adding an ontology-layer, which provides semantic enhancement, provides the u...

Abstract. In environmental databases there is a plethora of data, described in different terminologies, stored in different data structures and referring to distinct time periods and locations. Thus it is difficult for non-experts to find the data they are looking for. Adding an ontology-layer, which provides semantic enhancement, provides the underlying data structure for an open and intuitive search interface for non-experts. In this paper, we present the design of a bilingual eco-ontology using fuzzy mappings and loosely bridged ontologies which introduce a semantic layer in an existing environmental database storing data in German and French. 1. Minimize

This paper shows an approach to deal with the changing requirements for a user interface for the Virtual Data Centre (VDC). The VDC is a system, which offers centralised access to heterogeneous data and spatially distributed databases about nature and landscape (Frehner&Braendli, 2006). The system was designed for extendibility in terms of addin...

This paper shows an approach to deal with the changing requirements for a user interface for the Virtual Data Centre (VDC). The VDC is a system, which offers centralised access to heterogeneous data and spatially distributed databases about nature and landscape (Frehner&Braendli, 2006). The system was designed for extendibility in terms of adding more databases and business logic which is exposed as services. However, some existing business logic does not fit into the currently operational Web application because it is based on different technology and because the existing Webuser interface is too restrictive. Also, due to technological advances, further business logic has to be considered for integration, while avoiding an overly complicated user interface. Furthermore, the VDC is going to be opened for the public. Therefore, based on a security policy, access restrictions will have to be implemented. In addition, two categories of users, namely experts and novices, with their specific behaviour have to be accounted for. This paper starts with the basic conditions for the VDC. It will then show what specific challenges we are facing when the Web interface is revised and how we are intending to overcome those difficulties. Minimize

To accommodate large classes and raise the motivation of natural science students taking an introductory information and communication technology course, we introduced elearning material. An analysis of the factors that contribute to the course's success shows that it is not the application of technology in various forms that is responsible but ...

To accommodate large classes and raise the motivation of natural science students taking an introductory information and communication technology course, we introduced elearning material. An analysis of the factors that contribute to the course's success shows that it is not the application of technology in various forms that is responsible but the careful blending of different didactical methods, based on sound pedagogical principles. After we started using e-learning material based on active, application oriented, individualized learning, we noticed a remarkable increase in the student's motivation. They can apply conceptual knowledge more flexibly and work more independently with increasing self confidence. Minimize

Rufinamide, a triazole derivative that is structurally distinct from currently marketed antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), is in development for the adjunctive treatment of Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) in children and adults. Rufinamide is well absorbed after oral administration, demonstrates low protein binding, and is metabolized by enzymatic hydrol...

Rufinamide, a triazole derivative that is structurally distinct from currently marketed antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), is in development for the adjunctive treatment of Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) in children and adults. Rufinamide is well absorbed after oral administration, demonstrates low protein binding, and is metabolized by enzymatic hydrolysis without involvement of cytochrome P450 enzymes, conferring a low drug interaction potential. In a randomized, double-blind trial involving 138 adult and pediatric patients with LGS, compared with placebo, rufinamide 45 mg/kg/day resulted in significantly superior reductions in drop attacks (median change −42.5% vs +1.4% with placebo) and total seizures (−32.1% vs −11.7% with placebo), accompanied by significantly higher responder rates. These results are comparable with findings reported for other AEDs in randomized, controlled clinical trials in patients with LGS. Rufinamide produced statistically significant seizure reduction which was maintained during long-term therapy and accompanied by good tolerability. The most frequently reported adverse events from a pooled safety database evaluating short- and long-term therapy were headache (22.9% and 29.5%), dizziness (15.5% and 22.5%) and fatigue (13.6% and 17.7%). Rufinamide therefore presents a favorable efficacy and tolerability profile and is a promising candidate for the adjunctive therapy of LGS. Minimize